We spoke with Marietta Vazquez, MD, Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, about her current projects and how she can advise and help junior faculty at Yale School of Medicine.
Q+A
Faculty Highlights in Pediatrics
Marietta Vazquez, MD, FAAP
Can you share a bit about the work you're currently doing?
Much of my work centers on supporting people and creating opportunities. I wear a few different hats at Yale. As associate dean for Collaborative Excellence, I work with students to create opportunities, build partnerships, and develop programs that support Yale students as well as students from other institutions. I enjoy helping students connect with one another and find pathways to grow as leaders and scholars. As vice chair of Pediatrics, I help lead efforts in education, recruitment, and professional development for our residents, fellows, faculty, and staff. A big part of my work is supporting people at every stage of their careers and helping build a strong and thriving academic community. I'm involved in research focused on food insecurity and its impact on health. I'm interested in understanding how access to food shapes health outcomes and in finding practical ways to address these challenges in our communities.
What national organizations are you affiliated with or involved in?
I am actively involved in several professional organizations that support medical education, pediatric health, and leadership development. These include the Association of American Medical Colleges, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Connecticut Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Through these organizations, I have opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across the country and within Connecticut on issues related to medical education, workforce development, child health, health equity, and advocacy. These connections help inform my work in supporting students, trainees, faculty, and the communities we serve.
Do you have any recent publications or op-eds?
In your role, how can you help other faculty members?
A key part of my role is supporting faculty throughout their careers and helping create an environment where they can thrive. I work closely with faculty councils and faculty leaders to ensure that faculty perspectives are heard and incorporated into departmental and institutional decision-making. I enjoy helping faculty identify opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, mentorship, and collaboration. Whether someone is early in their career or a seasoned leader, I see my role as helping connect them with the resources, networks, and opportunities that support their success. I also work to foster a strong sense of community among faculty by encouraging engagement, recognizing achievements, and creating spaces where colleagues can share ideas, address challenges, and learn from one another. Ultimately, my goal is to help faculty feel supported, valued, and empowered to excel in their clinical, educational, research, and leadership roles.
For early-career faculty considering a similar career trajectory, what key lessons or advice would you share?
My advice to early-career faculty is to remain open to opportunities that may not have been part of your original career plan. Some of the most meaningful professional experiences come from saying "yes" to new challenges, serving on committees, leading initiatives, or taking on projects that align with your values and interests. Seek out mentors and sponsors who will not only provide guidance but also advocate for you and help open doors. At the same time, invest in building relationships across disciplines and departments. Many of the most impactful opportunities and collaborations arise from those connections.
What about Yale is most special to you, or what do you like most about working/being here?
What I value most about Yale is the people. I have the privilege of working with incredibly talented students, trainees, faculty, and staff who are deeply committed to learning, discovery, service, and making a positive impact in the world. Every day brings the chance to build connections, support future leaders, and contribute to a community that is dedicated to improving lives through education, research, and service.